How to Hitch a Caravan

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If you’ve just bought your first caravan or you’re still shopping around, one of the first things you’ll need to learn is how to hitch a caravan. It might seem intimidating at first, with cables, chains and couplings all needing to line up, but once you’ve done it a few times, it quickly becomes part of the routine.

Whether you’re using a traditional caravan tow ball or the more advanced DO35 hitch found on our hard top hybrid caravans and off-grid caravans, this guide will walk you through the process in clear, easy steps. We’ll also cover how to unhitch a caravan correctly when you reach camp or pull into your driveway.

Let’s start with hitching up.

Hitching Your Caravan

Step 2: Lower the Hitch onto the Tow Ball

Once you’re lined up, wind the jockey wheel back down slowly, guiding the hitch receiver onto the ball. Most caravans in Australia use a 50mm tow ball, and you’ll feel a slight ‘clunk’ when it locks into place. Make sure the locking lever has fully engaged, and secure it with the safety latch or pin to prevent it from bouncing free. If it doesn’t feel right, double-check your alignment before moving on.

Step 3: Cross and Connect the Safety Chains

Next, attach the safety chains, and remember to always cross the chains underneath the hitch. This creates a cradle that can catch the drawbar in the unlikely event of a disconnect. Use rated D-shackles or rated locking devices to secure each chain to your vehicle’s tow bar. They should be tight enough to stay put but loose enough to move freely with the caravan’s articulation.

Step 4: Secure the Breakaway Cable

Every caravan must be fitted with a breakaway system, which is designed to activate the caravan’s brakes if it ever becomes disconnected. You’ll find a thin cable connected near the hitch which needs to be clipped to a separate, fixed point on your tow vehicle. It should never be attached to the same point as the chains or hitch. Think of it as your last line of defence in a worst-case scenario where your caravan gets disconnected.

Step 5: Plug in Your Power

Now it’s time to connect the trailer plug. Most caravans use a 7-pin or 12-pin connector, which powers your brake lights, indicators, and other electrics while driving. If your vehicle is fitted with an Anderson plug, plug that in too, as it allows your alternator to charge the caravan’s batteries and run things like your fridge while you’re on the road. Make sure all cables are tidy and won’t drag on the ground.

Step 6: Final Safety Checks

Before driving off, release the caravan’s handbrake and wind the jockey wheel all the way up. Secure it into its travel position using the jockey wheel clamp so it doesn’t move during travel. Do one last walk around of your setup and check your lights, indicators and electric brakes are working correctly. Ensure all storage compartments are closed, and triple check that the hitch is locked and the chains are secure. Finally, make sure your side mirrors are correctly adjusted so you can see the length of your van clearly. If everything’s good to go, you’re ready to roll.

Hitching a Caravan with a DO35 Hitch

From here, the rest of the process is the same: connect your chains, secure the breakaway cable, plug in your electrics, and do your final checks.

For a more detailed walkthrough, check out our dedicated guide on How to Connect a DO35 Hitch.

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How to Unhitch a Caravan

Unhitching might seem like a simpler job, but there’s still a right way to do it, especially if you want to avoid any sudden movement or strain on your gear. Here’s how to unhitch a caravan safely when you arrive at your destination.

Step 3: Remove the Breakaway Cable

Unclip the breakaway cable from your tow vehicle and make sure it’s not tangled or under strain. Like the plugs, stow it securely so it’s out of the way.

Step 4: Detach the Safety Chains

Unfasten your D-shackles and disconnect the crossed safety chains. Some people like to hook them up on the A-frame or lay them on a mat. Whatever you choose, just make sure they’re off the ground and not sitting in the dirt, keeping them safely stowed and ready for next time.

Step 5: Unlock the Hitch

If you’re using a 50mm ball hitch, lift the locking lever and ensure the mechanism is fully released. If the hitch is still gripping the ball, you may need to wind the jockey wheel up slightly to relieve pressure.

For DO35 hitches, press the red release button and wind the caravan’s nose up until the pin is free. You’ll often hear a soft “pop” when the coupling separates from the pin.

Step 6: Wind the Jockey Wheel

Once the hitch is free, raise or lower the jockey wheel as needed until the caravan is stable and level. Tighten the jockey wheel clamp to lock it securely in place, make sure the drawbar is stable, and that the caravan is sitting correctly before leaving it unattended. Your van is now safely unhitched and ready to enjoy.

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